How does PCOS affect your body in the long run?

PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is more than just a reproductive health issue, it's a complex condition that can wreak havoc on various aspects of a woman's health. From hormonal imbalances to metabolic disturbances, the effects of PCOS ripple through the body, leaving a trail of challenges in its wake.

Check out Gytree’s programs on PCOS- Holistic Wellbeing. Gytree's PCOS program starts with a detailed, in-depth consultation with a Gynaec who will actually explain your unique symptoms. Manage period, weight, energy, stress and skin right when you can and prevent it from progressing to severe complications like the ones mentioned below. 

Complications of PCOS in the long run

1. Infertility

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) stands as a formidable barrier to fertility for many women. The hormonal imbalances characteristic of PCOS can disrupt ovulation, making it difficult for women to conceive. As the dream of motherhood slips further away, the emotional toll of infertility weighs heavily on the hearts of women battling PCOS.

The hormonal imbalances characteristic of PCOS disrupt the delicate interplay of reproductive hormones, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and anovulation. Up to 70% of women with PCOS experience infertility due to these ovulatory disturbances. The persistent struggle to conceive can exact a profound emotional toll, casting a shadow over the dreams of motherhood.

2. Metabolic Syndrome

PCOS is often accompanied by metabolic disturbances, giving rise to a cluster of conditions collectively known as metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension form the dreadful quartet of metabolic syndrome, casting a shadow over the health of women with PCOS. Consult our Gytree Experts in Gynecology, Nutrition and Lifestyle for any queries or complaints. 

Insulin resistance lies at the heart of this metabolic chaos, affecting up to 70% of women with PCOS. Research studies highlight the increased risk of type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity in women with PCOS. These metabolic disturbances not only exacerbate the symptoms of PCOS but also raise the risk of long-term health complications.

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3. Sleep Apnea

The link between PCOS and sleep apnea is a lesser-known but significant concern. The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to episodes of sleep apnea. As women with PCOS toss and turn through the night, the embrace of restful sleep remains but a distant dream.

Research suggests that up to 30% of women with PCOS suffer from sleep-disordered breathing, including obstructive sleep apnea. The hormonal imbalances and weight gain associated with PCOS contribute to the development of sleep disturbances, robbing women of restorative sleep and exacerbating daytime fatigue and cognitive dysfunction.

4. Endometrial Cancer

PCOS is often associated with irregular menstrual cycles and anovulation, which can result in unopposed estrogen exposure. Over time, this estrogen imbalance can predispose women with PCOS to endometrial hyperplasia and, in severe cases, endometrial cancer, a sobering reminder of the long-term consequences of untreated PCOS. The National Cancer Institute reports that women with PCOS have a threefold increased risk of developing endometrial cancer compared to women without the condition.

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5. Depression

Amidst the physical tribulations wrought by PCOS, the silent storm of depression looms large. The hormonal fluctuations and psychological distress accompanying PCOS can take a heavy toll on mental health, casting a shadow of despair over the lives of affected women. A meta-analysis published reveals that women with PCOS are at a significantly higher risk of depression compared to their counterparts without the condition.

Take charge of your health, starting today! Be mindful of your diet, sleep and habits. Visit the Gytree Shop to purchase essential nutrient-rich supplements like our Total Strength Support Protein Powder and many more. Shatavari present in Gytree’s Protein helps support the endocrine system, aiding in the production of estrogen. 90% of our users experienced improvement in their PCOS management with control of their symptoms. 

As we navigate the complexities of PCOS, it's crucial to recognize the profound impact it can have on every facet of a woman's health. From infertility to metabolic disturbances, sleep disturbances to psychological distress, PCOS casts a wide net of challenges that demand our attention and understanding. By shedding light on the far-reaching consequences of PCOS, we can empower women to navigate this journey with resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination.